A dance troupe scooped a flurry of awards at an American-style competition.

The Maria Frances School of Dance, which runs classes across Cumbria, took five dances to the Association of American Dancing competition at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens.

Tutor Maria Rosewarne said: “We took five dances spanning the three age groups, under-nines, under- 15s and 15 and over and came away with amazing results.

“The under-nines performed a magical number called The Elves and the Shoemaker and were awarded third place.

“The junior troupe performed Snow White and the Huntsman , which included a 10ft ‘mirror’ on stage which came crashing down as Snow White, played by Tegan Patinson, and the Hunstman, Lia Healy, defeat the wicked witch, played by Chloe Ferguson.

“A further 35 dancers formed the witch’s army and Snow White’s friends. “The troupe was awarded first place to the cheers of the school.”

The school’s seniors, performed three numbers; The Evolution of Dance, A Taste of Cuba and Feeling Good .

Miss Rosewarne said: “Evolution is a thrilling combination of ballet, contemporary, latin, broadway, tap and commercial dance.

“ A Taste of Cuba gave a flavour of salsa and even had a sprinkling of Dirty Dancing .

“This stunning dance was choreographed by Samantha Harfoot, who has danced with the school since she was young. It was awarded third place.

“The school’s last dance was Feeling Good . The dancers looked sophisticated in their costumes and brought the Michael Buble version of the song to life. It was awarded fourth place in a near professional level competition.”

Dancers with the Maria Frances School of Dance come from across the county.

“They come together in Cockermouth each Saturday for five months to perfect the dances,” added Miss Rosewarne. “They come together to dance, improve their ability and make new, life-long friendships.